Complementary
learning implies that school and afterschool are distinct but mutually
supportive in a child’s growth and development. Out-of-school programs ought not to
simply extend or duplicate school activities and environments, but rather
should leverage their flexibility and unique strengths to provide children with
what they might not get from school alone. Therefore, while school time is
dedicated primarily to academic growth, afterschool programs can provide unique
opportunities for children toreceive supplemental academic support, engage
in experiential learning activities, and develop meaningful
relationships with caring adults and peers.

Working in
collaboration with the PPS Afterschool Manager, OCD is building supports for
students’ homework success through a series of activities
designed to establish usable and effective pathways of communication between a
middle school and the afterschool programs attended by its students.

For more information, please contact Joan Eichner, Director of Applied Research and Evaluation, at 412.383.1310 or jce12@pitt.edu